For example, breast pain is more common with benign breast conditions than with breast cancer. However, the only way to know for sure is to see a provider and get checked.

If you have breast cancer, it’s best to find it at an early stage, when the chances of survival are highest.

Breast lumps or lumpiness

Many women may find their breasts feel lumpy.

Breast tissue naturally has a bumpy texture.

Some women have more lumpiness in their breasts than others. In most cases, this lumpiness is no cause to worry.

If the lumpiness can be felt throughout the breast and feels like your other breast, then it’s probably normal breast tissue.

Lumps that feel harder or different from the rest of the breast (or the other breast) or that feel like a change should be checked. This type of lump may be a sign of breast cancer or a benign breast condition (such as a cyst or fibroadenoma).

See a health care provider if you:

Find a new lump (or any change) that feels different from the rest of your breast

Find a new lump (or any change) that feels different from your other breast

Feel something that’s different from what you felt before

It’s best to see a provider if you are unsure about a new lump (or any change).

Although a lump (or any change) may be nothing to worry about, you’ll have the peace of mind it was checked.

If you’ve had a benign lump in the past, don’t assume a new lump will also be benign. The new lump may not be breast cancer, but it’s best to make sure.

Nipple discharge

Liquid leaking from your nipple (nipple discharge) can be troubling, but it’s rarely a sign of breast cancer.

Discharge can be your body's natural reaction when the nipple is squeezed.

Signs of a more serious condition (such as breast cancer) include discharge that:

Occurs without squeezing the nipple

Occurs in only one breast

Is bloody or clear (not milky)

Nipple discharge can also be caused by an infection or other condition that needs treatment.